Pedestrian accidents can be life-changing events. Whether you were hit by a car, a bicycle, or some other vehicle, the injuries tend to be serious because pedestrians lack the physical protection drivers have. If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, understanding common injuries, their potential long-term effects and available legal options can help you take the next steps to protect your health and financial well-being.
Typical Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
The types of injuries sustained in these accidents vary depending on factors like the speed of the vehicle, the angle of impact, and whether the pedestrian was thrown or pinned. Here are some of the most frequent injuries pedestrians experience:
Head and Brain Injuries
- What Happens: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a significant risk, especially if a pedestrian strikes their head on the vehicle or pavement. Concussions, skull fractures, or brain hemorrhages are common outcomes.
- Long-Term Effects: TBIs can result in memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, or permanent cognitive impairment. Severe cases may require long-term care or rehabilitation.
Broken Bones
- What Happens: Bones in the legs, arms, ribs, pelvis, and even the face are vulnerable to fractures during an impact. The force of a vehicle can easily result in clean breaks or complex, shattering injuries.
- Long-Term Effects: Depending on the severity, broken bones can take months to heal. Some injuries may result in reduced mobility, chronic pain, or the need for surgical intervention with plates or screws.
Spinal Cord Injuries
- What Happens: The force of a collision can damage the spine, leading to herniated discs, fractures, or even paralysis in extreme cases.
- Long-Term Effects: Spinal cord injuries may result in chronic back pain, reduced mobility, or permanent disability, significantly impacting a person's quality of life.
Soft Tissue Injuries
- What Happens: Sprains, torn ligaments, and muscle injuries are common in pedestrian accidents. While these injuries may not seem as severe as others, they can be just as debilitating.
- Long-Term Effects: Soft tissue injuries can lead to lasting pain and stiffness, limiting a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks or return to work.
Internal Injuries
- What Happens: The blunt force trauma of being hit can damage internal organs such as kidneys, liver, lungs, or intestines. Internal bleeding may not be immediately noticeable, making it critical to seek medical attention after an accident.
- Long-Term Effects: Internal injuries can be life-threatening if untreated, and survivors might face medical complications requiring ongoing monitoring.
Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations
- What Happens: Glass from windows, debris from the road, or the impact itself can cause deep cuts or abrasions.
- Long-Term Effects: Severe cuts may require stitches, skin grafts, or leave lasting scars. Injuries to the face or visible areas can also carry emotional consequences.
Legal Considerations for Seeking Compensation
When you're injured in a pedestrian accident, pursuing compensation can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Here’s what you need to know:
Determining Fault
- The driver who hit you is often at fault, especially if they were speeding, distracted, or violating traffic laws. However, the fault isn't always clear—other factors, like poor road conditions or a lack of proper signage, could contribute.
- Establishing fault requires evidence such as witness testimony, police reports, and video footage.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
- Damages in pedestrian accident cases typically fall into these categories:
- Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical treatments, rehabilitation, medications, and hospitalization costs.
- Lost Wages: Reimburses wages lost due to time off work or reduced earning capacity caused by injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Addresses the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident.
- Disability or Disfigurement: If the injuries result in long-term or permanent changes to your body, financial compensation may help address the impact on your life.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights
- Statute of Limitations: Every state has a time limit for filing a personal injury claim, often ranging from 2-3 years. Missing this window can prevent you from pursuing compensation.
- Seek Evidence Early: Collect witness names, photos of the accident scene, and medical records immediately after the accident. These will strengthen your claim.
Insurance Companies and Settlements
- Drivers involved in pedestrian accidents typically have auto insurance that may cover some of your damages. However, insurers often aim to minimize payouts. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can help you negotiate a fair settlement.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one have been injured as a pedestrian, the actions you take immediately after the accident can significantly impact your health and any future legal claims:
- Get Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, some injuries (like internal bleeding or concussions) may not show symptoms right away.
- Call the Police: An official police report will serve as key evidence for your claim.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident site, vehicle, your injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Gather Contact Information: Exchange details with the driver and collect the names and numbers of any witnesses.
- Consult an Attorney: An attorney who specializes in pedestrian accidents can handle your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
St. Louis Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
In conclusion, pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, each with its own set of challenges and recovery processes. Understanding these injuries and the necessary legal and medical steps is crucial for ensuring a comprehensive recovery. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in St. Louis, MO, don't hesitate to reach out to Sedey Harper Westhoff at (314) 819-0963 for expert legal assistance. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the aftermath of an accident and secure the compensation you deserve.